“Bricks and mortar can be rebuilt but losing members of our team is the biggest tragedy and our priority at this time” said Stephen van der Walt, CEO of the Paarl Media Group. “We have all lost close friends and colleagues and still have employees whom are critically injured in the hospital. Our people form the most important foundation of our business with their passion, skill and commitment and we deeply mourn the impact on human life.”
Mike Ehret, managing director of Paarl Print added: “The most important focus for us right now is the people. We are doing everything in our power for the staff and their families who have been affected to assist in their recovery from this tragic event.”
Within hours of the breakout of the fire, a trauma centre, manned by professional counsellors, was established within site of the factory to support employees. This facility will continue to run for as long as required to help staff in their recovery process. The trauma centre can be contacted on +27 (0)84 400 1966.
The group has established a Family Support Fund to offer assistance for the victims' next of kin. Any financial contributions to the Fund can be made into the following bank account: Standard Bank Paarl Media Holdings, account number 072191902, branch number 000210. Donations of non-perishable food parcels and other items that these families would find useful would also greatly be appreciated. A call centre has been set up to handle any queries at contact +27 (0)21 870 3800.
